(Newser)
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Spirit Airlines rolled out its new fees on carry-on baggage today, lauding the move as a way to save time in loading and unloading planes. "The check-in process is going well so far," said a spokeswoman. Since airlines started charging for checked luggage, more passengers have brought carry-on bags. Spirit's new fee—the first in the industry—is aimed at discouraging passengers from stuffing the overhead bins because it often takes extra time to get bags settled and gate check those that won't fit onboard.

Spirit is charging $30 at check-in for any bag that's too big to fit under the seat. The price goes up to $45 for passengers who wait until they get to the boarding gate to pay, another step aimed at saving time. Members of Spirit's special fare club will only pay $20 for a carry-on. Umbrellas, camera bags, strollers and car seats are among the items that will remain free of charge.

This is why I don't fly. If you can't go first class don't go at all, and that means everything not just flying. Flying is so cheap you couldn't make me do it on a dare. I didn't go near a plane from '78 to '97 and it was the same plane and cheaper for coach than in '78. If you fly all the time--who cares what they charge? Last time I did it it cost me four thousand bucks to go from Denver to Atlanta. They treat you very well and you can have all the luggage you want. I had a dog. Under my seat. But, first class on an old 737 spirals into the ground as fast as coach. So, done with that. I wish this country had done a nice rail line like Europe. Imagine a two hundred mile an hour train to every city in this big country? Don't have it because the mob owns concrete and they and Ike-- for another term-- gave you your highways. And we suck up all the world's oil which some company--not you--likes to sell as jet fuel.

whatsreallygood

Aug 1, 2010 5:56 PM CDT

i saw a cockroach on a spirit flight from myrtle beach to laguardia a couple of years ago. no joke...and a creepy old man videotaping my two lady friends on the plane. worst airline of all time. EVER